Leicester Tigers director for rugby Richard Cockerill has admitted that it is not yet known what is causing the back problem which continues to plague Louis Deacon.

Deacon underwent an operation to rectify a disc complaint two years ago and it was initially thought that the procedure had been an unmitigated success. However, despite enjoying a relatively trouble-free 2009/2010 campaign, the lock has yet to make an appearance for the Tigers this season after suffering a recurrence of the problem.

"He is still having issues with his back and his treatment is ongoing," Cockerill told the Leicester Mercury. "He has been having scans and getting medical advice.

"I would obviously like him fit. We need to get to the bottom of it and get it sorted whatever way that is. He had surgery to that part of his body and, two years down the line, he is still having some issues with it. We need to eradicate it."